Pimento Platter Recipe
chips, tomatoes, grilled ciabatta, bacon, scallions.
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Ingredients
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Pimento Spread
Crisps & Bread
Toppings & Garnish
Method
Pimento Spread
- 1
Prepare spread
Place drained roasted red pimentos, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, grated cheddar, hot sauce, smoked paprika, salt and pepper into a medium mixing bowl or food processor.
- 2
If using a food processor: pulse until smooth but still slightly chunky, scraping down the sides once or twice (about 20–30 seconds). If mixing by hand: mash the pimentos into the cream cheese with a fork, then stir in the remaining ingredients until well combined and creamy.
- 3
Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce as desired. Transfer to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate briefly while you prepare other components (15–20 minutes) to let flavors meld.
Crisps & Bread
- 4
Cook bacon
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if available. Lay bacon strips in a single layer and bake 12–18 minutes until crispy, flipping once if needed. Remove and transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain and cool, then chop into 1/2-inch pieces.
- 5
Grill ciabatta
Slice ciabatta crosswise into 1/2-inch thick slices (about 8–10 slices depending on loaf). Brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill bread slices 1–2 minutes per side until golden and charred in spots. Rub the warm grilled slices with the cut side of the halved garlic clove for a light garlic aroma. Keep warm.
- 6
Arrange chips in a shallow bowl or on the platter near the bread for easy scooping.
Toppings & Assembly
- 7
Prepare tomatoes and scallions
Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice scallions. Place them in small bowls or pile neatly on the platter so guests can add as desired.
- 8
Assemble platter
Place the chilled pimento spread bowl at the center of a large serving platter. Surround it with grilled ciabatta slices on one side and chips on the other. Scatter chopped crispy bacon over the pimento spread and lightly over some bread slices. Sprinkle sliced scallions and chopped herbs over the spread and tomatoes. Optionally squeeze half a lemon over the tomatoes and/or bread for brightness.
- 9
Provide small spoons or spreaders and arrange extra napkins. Serve immediately so the bread remains crisp and the chips stay crunchy.